ALAN PARDEW has played down speculation linking him with the vacant West Ham manager's job.

Hammers boss Glenn Roeder was sacked after the Londoners' 1-0 defeat at Rotherham on Saturday and Pardew, who has transformed Reading's fortunes since being appointed in October 1999, is thought to be one of the contenders for the role.

But Pardew said: "I wouldn't say I'm flattered to be linked with the job as it's just a reflection on the success we've had here - not just me, but the players and everyone at the club - so it's obvious I'm going to be linked with jobs.

"My players will be linked to Premiership clubs and maybe my chairman will get linked with Chelsea, who knows?

"I'm Reading manager. We're all doing a good job and we're looking to continue that.

"I have sympathy for Glenn Roeder losing his job, but he won't be the last as we're in one of the most difficult jobs around."

Pardew has a clause in his contract allowing him to talk to any Premiership club. However, as the Hammers dropped out of the top flight last season, that does not come into effect.

The Londoners have not enquired about talking to the Royals' boss either.

Hammers legend Trevor Brooking, who was caretaker boss at Upton Park at the end of last season, will take temporary charge, while Oldham boss Iain Dowie is also firmly in the hunt.

West Ham coach Paul Goddard, ex-Stoke and Sunderland boss Steve Cotterill and Watford's Ray Lewington have also been linked with the vacancy.